The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards are accepting submissions for their 2020 contest — here are the most hilarious photos so far

This photo of a confused-looking seal is a contender in the annual Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards.© Johan Siggesson/Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards 2020

• The annual Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards highlight hilarious photos of animals in the wild.
• The 2020 contest is now open for submissions.
• People have already submitted funny photos of lions, owls, and hippos.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Every year, the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards highlight the funniest photos of animals taken in the wild. Talented photographers from around the world manage to capture moments where animals seem to be experiencing very human emotions or dilemmas.

Founders Tom Sullam and Paul Joynson-Hicks started the contest to raise awareness about wildlife conservation. They hope the pictures encourage people to shop responsibly, be mindful of their water use, and speak out about environmental issues — in addition to making people laugh.

The 2020 contest is now open for submissions, and people have already started sending in photos of lions, owls, hippos, and other species striking hilarious poses or pulling amusing facial expressions.

Here are 12 of the best submissions to the 2020 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards so far.